He explained that “such incidents seriously tarnish the image of the Police Force Suriname (KPS) and that they also undermine the people’s faith in the police.” Minister Monorath made it clear that “it is unacceptable for goods that the police have to guard to disappear. “This is scandalous and can not be justified in any way”, said minister Monorath who added that officials are currently working hard towards restoring the people’s faith in the police. Fridaynight it became clear that 11 of the 14 cylinders that contained mercury and that had been put in a storage facility on the premises of the Geyersvlijt Police Station had disappeared. The cylinders were stored in a secure room. An investigation has already been launched in response to the theft.

Minister Monorath pointed out that the investigation must determine if the existing protocols were followed. “The reputation of the head of the police force and the Ministry of Justice and Police has received a heavy blow. The entire police Force has been discredited”, said minister Monorath who was criticized in parliament over this theft by MP Mahinder Jogi (VHP) and MP Rabin Parmessar (NDP). Both legislators have demanded answers.